Tennis star Tsitsipas explains why he supports Genoa before Roma kick-off

Tsitsipas' Unexpected Allegiance: The Intriguing Story Behind His Support for Genoa

Tennis superstar Stefanos Tsitsipas has revealed his long-standing support for Italian club Genoa, surprising many fans who expected him to favor the more prominent Roma in their Serie A clash. In a captivating on-pitch interview, Tsitsipas shared the unique story behind his affiliation with the Grifone, shedding light on the unexpected origins of his loyalty to the underdog club.

Discovering Genoa: A Serendipitous Encounter That Sparked a Lifelong Passion

The Chance Video Game Decision That Shaped a Lifelong Allegiance

Tsitsipas' support for Genoa can be traced back to his childhood, when he and his brother were playing a video game and had to choose a team. Intrigued by the club's captivating crest, the young Tsitsipas made a spontaneous decision that would ultimately shape his lifelong allegiance. "If I told you, then you would never believe me," the tennis star revealed. "When I was young with my brother, we were playing a video game, and I had to pick a team. I saw Genoa, thought the logo was amazing, and that's how we date back."

Embracing the Underdog Spirit: Tsitsipas' Affinity for Genoa's Passionate Fanbase

Tsitsipas' connection to Genoa goes beyond the initial video game encounter. The tennis champion expressed his deep appreciation for the club's devoted and enthusiastic supporters, describing them as "some of the nicest, most enthusiastic fans in Italy." This affinity for the underdog spirit and the club's passionate fanbase has clearly resonated with Tsitsipas, who feels a strong sense of belonging and gratitude for the opportunity to support Genoa.

A Lifelong Love Affair with Football: Tsitsipas' Dual Sporting Passions

Interestingly, Tsitsipas' support for Genoa is not solely rooted in his love for tennis. The Greek athlete revealed that he had a deep-seated passion for football from a young age, playing the sport until the age of 12. "I played football for most of my life until the age of 12, I've been around the structure of football from a very young age," he shared. This early exposure to the sport has clearly left a lasting impression on Tsitsipas, and his involvement with Genoa allows him to reconnect with his childhood love for the beautiful game.

A Unique Opportunity: Tsitsipas' Hands-on Experience with Genoa's Players

Tsitsipas' visit to the Stadio Luigi Ferraris was not just a passive display of support; the tennis star was given the unique opportunity to actively participate in the team's warm-up. He not only hit tennis balls into the crowd but also joined the goalkeepers in practicing with both a tennis ball and a football. This hands-on experience allowed Tsitsipas to immerse himself further in the football environment, rekindling his childhood passion and strengthening his connection to the club he has supported for so long.

A Serendipitous Alignment: Tsitsipas' Unexpected Allegiance to the Underdog

Tsitsipas' support for Genoa, a relatively lesser-known club compared to the powerhouse of Roma, is a testament to the unpredictable nature of fandom. The tennis star's decision to support the Grifone, based on a chance video game encounter, has blossomed into a lifelong affiliation that defies conventional expectations. This unique story highlights the power of serendipity and the ability of sports to transcend boundaries, connecting individuals from diverse backgrounds in unexpected ways.